Where to Stay in Edinburgh: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

You’ve planned to visit Edinburgh for your next trip and you’re wondering where to stay?

Indeed, choosing the perfect accommodation can be tricky with considerations like budget, location, and ease of transportation. Especially if you don’t know the city well!

As I know Edinburgh very well, I have compiled a list of the best hotels in Edinburgh for you, organized by neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a hotel in the historic center or in the modern part of the city, you’re sure to find the perfect option for your stay.

For each area, I will also tell you more about the best places to visit and nearby attractions.

With my recommendations, you can book your dream Edinburgh hotel right now and ensure an unforgettable trip!

And at the end of this article, you will also find my selection of budget hotels in Edinburgh as well as my list of the best places to stay in Edinburgh if you’re travelling with family.

So, where to stay in Edinburgh as a tourist?

Let’s find out!

My Favorite Hotels in Edinburgh

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels in Edinburgh, if you don’t have time to read my detailed article.

Just click on the hotel name in orange for details and rates:

• Where to stay in Edinburgh to visit on foot: Market Street hotel, located in Old Town
• Best Hotel in Edinburgh for shopping: Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
• Best 5* hotel in Edinburgh: The Balmoral Hotel, the city’s iconic hotel!
• Where to stay in Edinburgh on a budget: Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+)
• Where to stay in Edinburgh with family: CityRoomz Edinburgh / or for a luxury option at the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
• Best place to stay in Edinburgh for a romantic getaway: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

In Old Town District

Old Town is for sure the most picturesque neighborhood, perfect if you want to stay in the heart of Edinburgh.

There, you will find most historic landmarks and monuments. You will fo sure love its authentic medieval setting, characterized by cobblestone streets, ancient squares, and buildings with remarkable architecture!

The area is also very lively, featuring numerous shops, tea houses, and restaurants.

For me, it’s the best place to stay in Edinburgh!

I recommend this area for accommodation in Edinburgh:

• Because it’s the most central, making it the best starting point for exploring the city
• For being closest to Edinburgh’s most important landmarks
• If you enjoy lively neighborhoods

The Old Town district is an ideal place to discover:

• Edinburgh Castle: this majestic royal fortress, built in the 12th century, is perched on top of a hill, at the end of the Royal Mile.
• The Royal Mile: The bustling main cobblestone street that connects the castle and the palace, featuring plenty of shops as well as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Camera Obscura.
• The Palace of Holyroodhouse: once the residence of Mary, Queen of Scots. Today, it still serves as a secondary royal residence for the King of England and his family.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in downtown Edinburgh

In Edinburgh (and in Scotland in general), the tourist season is very short, and the hotels offering the best deals are fully booked months in advance!

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Edinburgh by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So book your hotel now by clicking on the orange links in this article, it’s the best way to ensure an unforgettable trip!

• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge – Royal Mile: Conveniently located halfway between the castle and the palace. Double rooms from 230€, breakfast at 16€. Strong points: great location, friendly staff, comfortable bed.
• Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile: Located along the Royal Mile. Modern and well-equipped studio with kitchenette from 300€. Strong points: the location, staff availability, spacious accommodation. An excellent choice for a stay in Edinburgh’s old town!
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket: Situated right in the city center, a 10-minute walk from the castle. Contemporary and stylish double rooms from 300€, breakfast at 16€. Strong points: the very helpful staff, spacious rooms, very comfortable bed.
• Market Street hotel: Just 100 meters from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Cozy double rooms from 320€, breakfast at 22€. Strong points: the rooftop view, the decor, the excellent breakfast.
• Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: This 5-star hotel is at the heart of the Old Town. It offers charming rooms with some offering views of the castle from 460€, breakfast at 23€. Strong points: the careful decoration, ideal location, bedding comfort. Our recommendation for a romantic getaway in Edinburgh!
• The Balmoral Hotel: Located in the old town, on Princes Street, this 5-star hotel opened in 1902 has hosted numerous celebrities and even Queen Elizabeth II. It’s undoubtedly the most renowned luxury hotel in Edinburgh. Guests will stay in spacious and elegant rooms with marble bathrooms starting at 830€, breakfast at 37€. Strong points: the indoor pool and spa, the view of the Old Town, teatime, attentive staff. Certainly the most prestigious hotel in Edinburgh for a dreamy stay!

In New Town district

Located right next to Old Town, New Town is Edinburgh’s modern and elegant district.

Despite its label as “new”, this district actually dates back to the 18th century and is paradoxically the oldest “new town” in Europe.

In this district, you will find chic boutiques, beautiful green spaces, and stunning period buildings. New Town is often regarded as one of the most beautiful districts in the entire United Kingdom!

Staying in New Town means enjoying an upscale, friendly, and welcoming area right in the heart of Edinburgh.

This district is ideal for your stay in Edinburgh:

• If you want to stay in the city center
• To be close to all sites and museums
• To enjoy the lively streets in the evening
• If you love shopping

New Town is perfect for discovering:

• Princes Street: one of Edinburgh’s most bustling streets, with numerous stores and a beautiful public park
• Georges Street: an elegant street lined with luxury upscale boutiques and bars
• The Scottish National Portrait Museum: a superb museum, and what’s more, it’s free (like most museums in Scotland!)
• The Scottish National Gallery and its impressive collection of artworks
• Calton Hill: one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Edinburgh.

Where to Stay in New Town, Edinburgh?

• YOTEL Edinburgh: Located just 50 meters from Charlotte Square. Modern-styled rooms with very comfortable bedding starting at £200, breakfast at £18. Strong points: cleanliness, super nice staff, direct access to the city center.
• The Rutland Hotel & Apartments: Right next to Princes Street Gardens. Tastefully decorated double rooms starting at £300, breakfast at £21. Strong points: the perfect location for visiting the historic center, welcoming staff, quality breakfast.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: At the base of Calton Hill. Comfortable, spacious rooms starting at £345, breakfast at £20. Strong points: heated indoor pool, friendly staff, hearty breakfast. A nice place to stay in Edinburgh for a weekend (or more!)
• Kimpton – Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located at Charlotte Square. You’ll stay in elegantly decorated rooms starting from £440, breakfast at £27. Strong points: the Spa, the charming atmosphere, the castle view.
• Gleneagles Townhouse: A luxury hotel near Calton Hill. Classic double rooms with wooden furnishings and tapestries from £760, breakfast included. Strong points: rooftop terrace with a city view, quality services, architectural beauty. This is the best hotel for a luxury stay in New Town, Edinburgh!

In Stockbridge District

You should choose Stockbridge district for your stay in Edinburgh if you’re looking for a friendly atmosphere.

This traditional neighborhood is located to the north of the city center.

With its independent shops, popular restaurants, and green spaces, it feels like a little village within the capital.

Stockbridge, which is mainly a very charming residential area, is the perfect place if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to stay in Edinburgh.

In Stockbridge, you shouldn’t miss:

• Dean Village, an old milling village by the river
• Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Scotland’s best botanical garden
• Inverleith Park, great for a breath of fresh air and a pleasant stroll
• Stockbridge Market: a market held every Sunday

Where to Stay in Stockbridge, Edinburgh?

• New Town Guest House (Adults Only): Just a 5-minute walk from Dean Village, this guesthouse offers very comfortable double rooms starting at £175. Strong points: garden views, tranquility, hospitable owners. It’s a great place to stay in Stockbridge district
  
• The Raeburn: Less than 20 minutes on foot to the historic center. Very spacious and quiet double rooms from £310, breakfast at £20. Strong points: delicious breakfast, the charm of the place, attentive staff. The perfect hotel for a romantic stay in Edinburgh!

In the Leith District

Leith district, located to the east of the city, is a former port that has been transformed into a lively neighborhood.

Known for its many renowned restaurants and pubs, Leith combines an industrial atmosphere with modern buildings.

Once separate from the main city, Leith is now an integral part of Edinburgh but has retained its independence. It has its own identity and really stands out from the city center.

If you want to discover another side of the city, Leith is a very pleasant district to stay in Edinburgh. And you’ll be just fifteen minutes from the center by tram. There’s also a direct line from the airport.

I recommend this district for accommodation in Edinburgh:

• To experience Edinburgh differently, away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the city center
• To enjoy some peace and quiet
• To take pleasure in beautiful walks along the water

Best things to do in Leith district:

• Try the area’s best restaurants, such as the two Michelin-starred restaurants located on the old port
• Go shopping on Leith Walk or at the Ocean Terminal shopping center
• Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, where the British royal family traveled and entertained numerous dignitaries. You’ll discover, among other things, the royal apartments as well as the engine room.

The best hotels to stay in the Leith district, Edinburgh

• The Sandaig: Located next to a small park. Spacious and well-equipped double room from £175. Strong points: tranquility, proximity to public transport, friendly reception.
• Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Leith Waterfront, an IHG Hotel: Located 100 meters from the Royal Yacht Britannia. Modern and comfortable room from £210, breakfast included. Strong points: next to the tram to reach the center of Edinburgh in 15 min, welcoming staff, comprehensive breakfast, parking. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Ocean Mist Leith: If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Edinburgh, you should opt to stay on the Ocean Mist, a historic boat that served as a torpedo retrieval vessel during World War II. Today, the boat has been converted into a boutique hotel offering 17 rooms with all the modern comforts from £210, breakfast included. Strong points: the bedding, tranquility, close to excellent restaurants, the uniqueness of the location.
• Malmaison Edinburgh: Located on the waterfront. Contemporary and cozy double room from £240, breakfast at £25. Strong points: good location in a calm area, free parking, very friendly staff.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh on a Budget

If you’re on a more limited budget, here is a selection of some affordable accommodations for your stay in Edinburgh:

• Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel: Youth hostel located just 800 meters from the train station and Princes Street. Dormitory bed from £30, breakfast at £6. Strong points: cleanliness, location, pleasant staff. An excellent choice for budget-friendly accommodation in Edinburgh!
• Kick Ass Greyfriars (18+): Hostel located next to the Royal Mile. Dormitory bed from £30 or room with shared bathroom from £125, breakfast at £5. Strong points: cleanliness, central location, themed evenings. The best solution to stay in central Edinburgh without breaking the bank!
• Kick Ass Grassmarket (18+): Located in Grassmarket, at the foot of the castle. Double room with shared bathroom from £105, breakfast at £5. Strong points: location, very friendly staff.
• CoDE Pod – The CoURT – Edinburgh: Situated in the Old Town. Double room from £160. Strong points: a calm, modern, and clean ambiance, good breakfast.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh with Family

• Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, an IHG Hotel: Located 20 min from the center by bus (bus stop right in front of the hotel). Modern family room from £150, breakfast included. Strong points: good full breakfast, welcoming staff, comfortable beds. This hotel offers great value for money for family stays in Edinburgh!
• CityRoomz Edinburgh: Right next to Princes Street Gardens. Family room with a double bed and bunk beds from £229. Strong points: central location, comfort, spacious room. I recommend this hotel for a family stay in Edinburgh!
• Holyrood Aparthotel: Located a 5-minute walk from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Two-bedroom apartment with two bathrooms, including dishwasher and washing machine, from £333. Strong points: great location, amenities, comfortable beds. Another excellent choice for family accommodation in Edinburgh!
• Hilton Edinburgh Carlton: Situated 20 meters from the Royal Mile. Quadruple room with two double beds from £395, breakfast at £17.50. Strong points: exceptional location, friendly staff, varied breakfast options.

What is the Best Hotel in Edinburgh?

If you’re looking for the best hotel in Edinburgh, you should definitely stay at The Balmoral Hotel. In my opinion, it’s the finest 5-star hotel in Edinburgh. You’ll be treated like a star!

For something a bit more affordable, yet still in the luxury category, I also recommend booking a night or more at the Virgin Hotels Edinburgh.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Summary Table of the Best Hotels

To give you a better idea of the hotels to stay in Edinburgh, I’ve put together a table summarizing all the hotels I’ve discussed in this article. You can sort them by price or by neighborhood!

Hôtel	Quartier	Prix (à partir de)
Ibis Edinburgh Centre	Old Town	230€
Aparthotel Adagio Royal Mile	Old Town	300€
Leonardo Royal Hotel	Old Town	300€
Market Street Hotel	Old Town	320€
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh	Old Town	460€
The Balmoral Hotel	Old Town	830€
Yotel Edinburgh	New Town	200€
The Rutland Hotel	New Town	300€
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel	New Town	345€
Kimpton Charlotte Square	New Town	440€
Gleneagles Townhouse	New Town	760€
New Town Guest Houses	Stockbridge	175€
The Raeburn	Stockbridge	310€
The Sandaig	Leith	175€
Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh	Leith	210€
Ocean Mist Leith	Leith	210€
Malmaison Edinburgh	Leith	240€
Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel	Hôtel pas cher	30€
Kick Ass Greyfriars	Hôtel pas cher	30€
Kick Ass Grassmarket	Hôtel pas cher	105€
CODE POD The Court	Hôtel pas cher	106€
Holiday Inn City West	Se loger en famille	180€
CityRoomz Edinburgh	Se loger en famille	275€
Holyrood Aparthotel	Se loger en famille	400€
Hilton Edinburgh Calton	Se loger en famille	474€

Scotland travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Scotland? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Scotland: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Scotland are listed there.

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